The excitement was in the air at Epsom Downs Racecourse in Surrey as race fans and fashion lovers gathered for the much-anticipated Ladies’ Day.
Despite a soggy start with some light rain, that didn’t stop the glamorous crowd from showing up in full force.
Bright, bold colours filled the racecourse, creating a rainbow of eye-catching outfits as the opening day of the two-day Derby Festival got underway.
This festival not only features the Coronation Day races but also the famous Oaks — a highlight for both racing enthusiasts and style watchers alike.
Sunshine, Champagne, and Stylish Revelry
Once the races kicked off and the sun began to peek through the clouds, the party really took off.
Revellers wasted no time popping bottles of champagne and raising their pints, soaking up the lively atmosphere.
Fashion was front and centre, with daring looks everywhere — think low-scooped corset tops paired with dramatic thigh-high splits.
Fascinators were equally bold and vibrant, with everyone aiming to catch the eye of the judges and claim the best-dressed title.
The Race Day Schedule and Entertainment
Friday’s racing events started at 1:30 pm, building up to the main race of the day, the Betfred Oaks, which kicked off at 4 pm.
The final sprint wrapped up shortly after 5 pm, but the party didn’t stop there.
Marvin Humes took over as DJ, keeping the energy high and the dancefloor buzzing well into the evening.
Ladies’ Day is known for being the third Classic race of the season and a fantastic opportunity to combine thrilling racing with show-stopping fashion.
Fashion and Festivities Go Hand in Hand
The official Epsom Derby website describes Ladies’ Day as “a spectacular, gleeful celebratory day” that brings people together for one of racing’s most vibrant carnivals.
While all eyes are fixed on the horses and jockeys, the day also hosts a fierce competition for the best-dressed attendees.
With colourful dresses, wide-brimmed hats, and extravagant fascinators, the racecourse becomes a runway where style truly matters as much as the sport.
Looking Ahead to the World’s Greatest Flat Race
The excitement continues tomorrow with the Derby itself, often called the “world’s greatest flat race.”
Set to start at 3:30 pm, this race features a staggering £1.5 million prize pot and stretches over a challenging one-and-a-half miles.
Prize money is distributed with roughly 75% going to the owner, while trainers, jockeys, stable staff, and racing charities share the remainder.
However, racegoers should keep an eye on the weather, as a yellow warning has been issued predicting thunderstorms and hailstorms, which could shake things up on the track.
Royal Connections and Historic Prestige
Epsom’s Derby is steeped in history, dating back to its first run in 1780.
It is the richest flat horse race in Britain and the most prestigious among the five Classic races — which also include the 2,000 Guineas, 1,000 Guineas, Epsom Oaks, and St Leger Stakes.
The event has long attracted royalty, with past attendees including Queen Elizabeth II, King Charles, and Queen Camilla.
Just last year, King Charles watched the Betfred Oaks, where his horse Treasure, bred by the late Queen, finished in 11th place.
For the past two years, jockey Ryan Moore and trainer Aidan O’Brien have dominated the winner’s circle, although horses can only win the Derby once.
Changing Fashion Trends at UK Racecourses
Meanwhile, the Cheltenham Racing Festival, which happens every March, has recently updated its approach to fashion.
It replaced “Ladies’ Day” with “Style Wednesday,” encouraging everyone — men and women alike — to get involved in the fashion celebrations.
The Jockey Club, which manages 15 racecourses across the UK, has also retired the Best Dressed competition at Cheltenham.
Instead, the festival now features the Slow Fashion awards, promoting sustainable choices like vintage, borrowed, and investment pieces.
Celebrating Sustainability and Personal Style
A spokesperson for Cheltenham Racecourse explained the new focus: “Style Wednesday celebrates fast horses and slow fashion, encouraging racegoers to showcase their unique style while making more sustainable fashion choices.”
This includes rewearing favourite outfits, investing in timeless garments, and buying from retailers specialising in pre-loved clothing. It’s a fresh, thoughtful twist on race day glam that embraces both individuality and environmental awareness.